Cannabis, the once forbidden flower, is now spreading its leaves around every corner. It’s the wellness plant known for treating the mind and body, and everyone is trying to get their hands on it. You can find its ingredients in ointments that proclaim to calm both you and your dog’s anxiety and help with body aches and pains. Now, you can even find it in your lubricant. Cannabis has an ability to relax both the body and mind. What better ingredient to incorporate in your sex toy chest?

Before we discuss its lubricating benefits, here is a breakdown of some of the science and language. Cannabis is a broad term for members of the flowering plant Cannabaceae. It’s also the broader classification for both hemp and marijuana plants. Although hemp and marijuana come from the same family, their chemistry and characteristics vary, which is why one has more legal restrictions than the other.

Cannabis has two primary compounds: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for having a psychoactive, sedated and euphoric effect. The psychoactive, intoxicating effect is what makes it illegal in many states. CBD has a relaxing and calming effect, minus the psychoactive elements.

The level of THC is what separates hemp from marijuana. Plants with less that 0.3% of THC are considered hemp and are legal across the nation. Those with more than 0.3% are considered marijuana and are currently illegal under federal guidelines. CBD extracted from hemp is legal across all state lines. CBD extracted from marijuana is banned in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Idaho.

Now that we have some cannabis basics, let’s dive into how to incorporate it into your bedroom. Due to the legal restrictions of lubrications incorporating THC, this article is going to focus on the benefits of CBD-isolate products (meaning THC has been extracted from the product). To help me in exploring CBD in lubricants, I have connected with Ashley Manta, the founder of CannaSexual® and one of the leaders in the field of Cannabis and Sex. I highly recommend following her Instagram elevatedintimacy for everything you want to know about Cannabis and Sex.

Ashley has done extensive research and believes cannabis can be a great resource for decreasing pain and increasing pleasure. With any new addition to the bedroom, it is best to have some forethought and planning to help enhance the experience. Here are some tips to help you along your journey:
• Safety First: If you are using a latex condom, make sure the lubricant is not oil-based. Oil breaks down latex. It is better to use a water-based product or a non-latex form of protection, such as polyurethane or nitrile.
• Foreplay: Begin by encouraging your partner to gently rub the lubricant into the areas where pain occurs or erogenous zones. This increases sexual arousal and helps the body absorb the CBD.
• Muscle Fatigue: If you are someone who experiences muscle fatigue, try incorporating a sex toy. The vibration can help stimulate the muscles and decrease fatigue. It’s a great compliment with the lubricant.
• Penis vs Vulva: CBD absorbs better into mucous membranes. Typically, people with vulvas or uncircumcised/intact penises will feel the enhancing effects more. Outcomes vary based on each individual’s body and state of mind. Give it a try and see how it works for you in solo or partnered play.

If you are interested in learning more about cannabis and sex, Ashley recently published a book called “The CBD Solution: Sex.” It’s a great introduction for anyone interested in exploring sex and cannabis!

The best way to learn about the benefits of CBD lubricant is to try it. Pure Romance has a great lubricant with CBD isolate that’s part of the HēLi healthy living collection. It’s water-based and fragrance free, so it’s great for those with sensitive skin. Many users say it increases excitement and pleasure in the bedroom. The mental intrigue of trying a cannabis lubricant creates added desire for sexual exploration. Embarking on this taboo naturally stimulates the mind and decreases anxiety, giving it even more power to stimulate other body parts. The CBD helps those with vulvas become relaxed for smoother penetration. One potential side-effect is that it can create faster orgasms for both those with penises and vulvas. It may be a good idea to try solo to gauge your pleasure tolerance.

Pure Romance has created a fun and safe way to experiment with cannabis and sex, so add it as a primary lubricant in your collection and have fun exploring the newly charted territory of this once forbidden flower.

Renée Burwell

Renée Burwell

LCSW, MPA, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
Renée Burwell, LCSW, MPA, CST is a skilled psychotherapist and educator with specializations in sex therapy and trauma. Her practice, Pandora's Awakening, offers services and educational outreach that help destigmatize mental and sexual health services. She is a skilled facilitator offering trainings and workshops to healthcare and social services professionals on mental health, sexual health, and reproductive justice. In addition to her work at Pandora's Awakening, she is also the executive director of the Tennessee Alliance of Sexual Health, AASECT’s Mid-Continent Representative, an active member of the Association of Black Sexologist, and is a writer and educator for various mediums including Bedroom Kandi and CNN.

She holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from Spelman College, a Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California, a Post Graduate Certificate in Sex Therapy and Education from the University of Michigan, and is AASECT certified as a sex therapist.